Best Modesto to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Modesto to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 823 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Modesto to Seattle moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Modesto compared to Seattle. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Modesto to Seattle Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
2John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
3All-Star Movers & Storage9.299.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4All Star Movers & Storage9.259.11Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Accurate Piano MOvers9.049.54Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Modesto to Seattle

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 823 miles from Modesto, CA to Seattle, WA will cost on average $2,481 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Modesto to Seattle move is roughly $5,955. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,669300 ft³5.56
1 Bedroom$2,481450 ft³5.51
2 Bedrooms$4,098750 ft³5.46
3 Bedrooms$5,9551100 ft³5.41
4 Bedrooms$8,5821600 ft³5.36
5+ Bedrooms$9,5641800 ft³5.31
*Please note: These California to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Washington. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to WA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Modesto guide.

Compare the 5 Best Modesto to Seattle Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
All-Star Movers & Storage Logo

All-Star Movers & Storage

Exceptional9.29/10
based on 1,155+ data points

2256 N MacArthur Dr

Tracy, CA, 95376

About All-Star Movers & Storage

Based in Manteca, locally-owned and operated All-Star Movers & Storage has over two decades of moving experience under its belt. Serving...

Services

  • Residential movers
  • Commercial movers
  • In-state moves and local moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2971368 / 10247

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved59,102 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All Star Movers & Storage Logo

All Star Movers & Storage

Exceptional9.25/10
based on 1,858+ data points

4101 Dublin Blvd Suite F # 517

Dublin, CA, 94568

About All Star Movers & Storage

Established in 1999, All Star Movers & Storage is a locally-owned and operated company serving the Bay Area, Hayward, Central Valley,...

Services

  • Residential movers
  • Commercial movers
  • In-state moves and local moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2971368 / 10247

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved59,102 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Accurate Piano MOvers Logo

Accurate Piano MOvers

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 647+ data points

Estrella Ave

Stockton, CA, 95206

About Accurate Piano MOvers

Accurate Piano Movers has more than 20 years of experience with protecting pianos. Moving your piano by yourself is dangerous, stressful,...

Services

  • Local Piano Movers
  • Long Distance Piano Movers
  • Piano Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2773343 / 1410785

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Modesto vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be overwhelming, especially to an unfamiliar city. To help ease the transition, we're offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between Modesto, CA & Seattle, WA . This guide is designed to help you find a new neighborhood in Seattle that feels like home by comparing it with what you loved about Modesto.

ModestoSeattleHow They're Similar
Village OneGreen LakeFamily-friendly atmosphere
La LomaQueen AnneHistoric homes and views
College AreaUniversity DistrictVibrant student life
Sylvan MeadowsWallingfordPeaceful yet central location
Del RioMadison ParkUpscale and serene
Rose AvenueBallardRich in culture and nightlife
Sherwood ForestFremontQuirky with a strong community vibe
North ModestoNorthgateGrowing and evolving community
GraffitiCapitol HillArtistic and lively
PelandaleColumbia CityDiverse and vibrant

In comparing Modesto and Seattle neighborhoods, you'll find rich parallels that can help guide your transition. For example, if you've enjoyed the laid-back yet family-oriented vibe of Village One in Modesto, you’ll likely find Green Lake in Seattle to be just as welcoming, with its vast park space and community events centered around the lake. Similarly, the historic charm of La Loma finds a counterpart in Queen Anne, where stunning views of the Seattle skyline combine with the quiet allure of historic homes. For those accustomed to the buzzing student life in Modesto's College Area, the University District in Seattle offers a seamless transition with its vibrant educational community, eclectic eateries like Shultzy’s Sausage, and cultural hubs such as the Henry Art Gallery. No matter what you loved about Modesto, Seattle’s diverse neighborhoods offer an array of environments to make your new city feel like home.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Modesto to Seattle

Moving from Modesto, CA to Seattle, WA is a significant life change. This guide offers an honest reflection of the move from Modesto to Seattle by comparing the pros and cons. The purpose is to help you weigh both the positive and negative aspects of this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Extreme heat in summer
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Limited cultural scene
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder climate
  • Tech job hub
  • Vibrant cultural scene
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More rainy days
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less outdoor diversity
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • More sunny days
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Outdoor activities

Moving from Modesto's warm climate and relaxed pace to Seattle’s vibrant, bustling city life brings significant changes. Seattle’s tech industry, including giants like Microsoft and Amazon, offers abundant career opportunities, attracting professionals from various fields. The cultural scene is a feast for the senses, with landmarks like the Chihuly Garden and Glass and the iconic Space Needle. While Modesto prides itself on its sunny days and lower living expenses, Seattle’s milder climate and picturesque landscapes, peppered with neighborhood parks such as Green Lake Park, offer a unique living experience. These changes come with a trade-off, notably Seattle's higher living costs and its famous rainy weather, which might take some adjusting for someone accustomed to the Central Valley's warmth.

Modesto vs. Seattle Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Modesto & Seattle aims to highlight food as a significant aspect of local culture, offering insights into what living in each area could taste like. This guide will equip you with knowledge about the food scene in your new home.

ModestoSeattle
Most iconic local food itemAlmond-crusted ChickenSalmon
Most popular meat dishTri-tip BBQDungeness Crab
Most popular street food itemTacosFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodAlmond Milk SmoothiesQuinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Concetto
  • Dewz
  • Surla's
  • Canlis
  • The Herb Farm
  • Matt's in the Market
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When settling into Seattle, you'll notice its rich food scene that emphasizes local seafood and health-conscious choices. Notably, Seattle's iconic Pike Place Market offers a bounty of fresh Salmon, allowing newcomers to indulge in the local favorite, and is also home to a variety of food trucks serving everything from fish tacos to exotic international cuisines. Furthermore, the city's commitment to sustainable living is reflected in its abundance of vegan options, such as the renowned quinoa salad available in vegan and vegetarian restaurants throughout neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard. Whether dining in the upscale Canlis overlooking Lake Union or grabbing a quick and nutritious almond milk smoothie, Seattle's vibrant food scene caters abundantly to both foodies and health enthusiasts alike.

Modesto vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in your new city often starts with discovering its culinary landscape. This restaurant comparison between Modesto, CA, and Seattle, WA, will guide you in finding your next favorite dining spots, blending familiar flavors with the local tastes of your new home. Let's dive into the world of gastronomy, where your beloved dishes from Modesto find a comparable counterpart in the vibrant restaurant scene of Seattle.

ModestoSeattleWhat You'll Love
ConcettaCascina SpinasseArtisanal Italian cuisine, reflecting Concetta's commitment to fresh, homemade dishes.
Skewers Kabob HouseMamnoonOffers Middle Eastern fare that captures the essence of Skewers’ beloved kebabs and mezze.
Bauhaus Strong CoffeeSeattle Coffee WorksRenowned for meticulous coffee brewing and a similar dedication to coffee culture.
Dewz RestaurantCanlisProvides a fine dining experience with a focus on exquisite service and an innovative menu, paralleling Dewz’s elegance.
Raw Sushi BistroSushi Kappo TamuraEsteemed for its fresh, sustainably-sourced sushi, reminiscent of Raw Sushi Bistro's offerings.
Tresetti's World CafféThe Pink DoorItalian-American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and a whimsical atmosphere likened to Tresetti’s.
Galletto RistoranteIl Terrazzo CarmineOffers upscale Italian dishes in an elegant setting, echoing Galletto Ristorante's charm and sophistication.
CommonwealthThe Walrus and the CarpenterKnown for its craft cocktails and innovative small plates, mirroring Commonwealth’s trendy vibe.
Greens TableHarvest BeatFocuses on plant-based, seasonal dishes that resonate with Green Table’s health-conscious and eco-friendly ethos.
Beckles Candies & GiftsFrankie & Jo'sWhile not a direct comparison, Frankie & Jo’s plant-based ice cream offers a unique take on sweets, echoing Beckles' dedication to quality and specialty.

When settling into Seattle, places like Cascina Spinasse and Mamnoon will make you feel right at home with their artisanal Italian and Middle Eastern dishes, mirroring the culinary excellence found at Concetta and Skewers Kabob House in Modesto. Meanwhile, coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the parallel between Seattle Coffee Works and Bauhaus Strong Coffee, where the coffee culture is celebrated with a similar fervor, promising a seamless transition for your morning ritual. For an elevated dining experience reminiscent of Dewz Restaurant, Canlis offers a remarkable blend of innovation and elegance, ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Modesto vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a cornerstone of any move, making it vital to understand how housing aspects between Modesto, CA and Seattle, WA compare. Insights into costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle elements like walkability can greatly influence your decision. This comparison aims to shed light on these vital aspects.

ComparisonModestoSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleRanchCraftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, quiet neighborhoodsWater views, proximity to parks

When diving deeper into the housing landscapes of Modesto and Seattle, the stark contrast in living environments and lifestyle becomes evident. Seattle's higher median home prices and rent reflect its vibrant urban setting, with the added allure of water views and an abundance of parks often highlighted in real estate listings. The city's Craftsman-style homes contribute to its distinct architectural character, while Modesto's ranch-style homes cater to those favoring spacious yards in quieter neighborhoods. Both cities offer unique living experiences tailored to different preferences, whether you're craving the hustle and bustle of urban Seattle or the more laid-back, spacious environment of Modesto.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Modesto vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another brings a myriad of changes, among which weather is one of the most impactful on your daily life. Understanding how the weather varies between Modesto, CA, and Seattle, WA is crucial for a smooth transition. Here’s a comparative look to help you get acquainted with your new climate.

Summer icon
94°F / 61°F

Modesto, CA

76°F / 56°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
54°F / 38°F

Modesto, CA

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
13

Modesto, CA

38

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Modesto, CA

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonModestoSeattle
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersWildfires, EarthquakesEarthquakes, Landslides
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Modesto to Seattle, you'll notice significant differences in weather patterns that may affect your lifestyle. Seattle experiences far fewer sunny days than Modesto, with an emphasis on rain, making it crucial to adapt to more indoor activities or prepare for outdoor ones with appropriate gear. The mild summer temperatures in Seattle might be a relief from the intense heat of Modesto, but the higher humidity and cooler winter temperatures call for a wardrobe adjustment. Seattle's notable air quality variation and specific allergens, such as tree pollen and mold, also demand attention for those sensitive to such factors.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Modesto to Seattle

When considering a move, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to elucidate the differences in money and finance between Modesto, CA, and Seattle, WA, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonModestoSeattle
Avg. Household Income$70,469$110,781
Cost of Living Index136.4121.4
State Income Tax1-13.30
Avg. Property Tax0.810.99
Avg. Sales Tax7.2510.1
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Manufacturing, RetailTechnology, Aerospace, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableLower
HomelessnessPresentSignificant

Comparing Modesto and Seattle reveals stark differences in living costs and income levels. Seattle's average household income far surpasses Modesto's, reflecting the city's booming technology and healthcare sectors. However, this higher income is counterbalanced by a significantly higher cost of living and sales tax rate. Despite Washington State's lack of income tax, Seattleites face higher property taxes. Additionally, while both cities have their unique economic strengths—Modesto with its agricultural base and Seattle with its tech-driven economy—the disparity in affluence and homelessness is noteworthy, highlighting Seattle's pressing urban challenges amidst its prosperity.

Modesto vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

If you're planning a move from Modesto, CA to Seattle, WA, understanding the typical makeup of the population in both cities can be incredibly insightful. This comparison will provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Modesto & Seattle, helping you gauge the cultural climate of your new home.

ModestoSeattle
Political Make-upModerately ConservativeVery Liberal
Local PoliticsSplit between Republican and Democratic supportStrong Democratic support
ReligionChristianity dominantly, with various other religious practicesLargely secular, diverse religious practices

When moving from Modesto to Seattle, you'll notice a significant shift in the political landscape. Seattle is known for its very liberal stance on various issues, contrasting with Modesto's more moderate conservative views. This difference reflects in local politics too, where Seattle shows a strong preference for Democratic candidates, unlike Modesto, which sees a more balanced political engagement among its residents. Religion in Seattle tends towards a more secular demographic, with a wide variety of beliefs represented, in contrast to Modesto's predominantly Christian community. This divergence between the two cities might be something to consider as you adjust to your new surroundings.

Modesto vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Modesto, CA to Seattle, WA requires understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Modesto & Seattle. This will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your daily commute and help you adjust to the differences.

ComparisonModestoSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2928
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

When relocating from Modesto to Seattle, you'll notice a significant difference in public transportation options and the necessity of owning a vehicle. Seattle's public transit system is robust and widely accessible, making it easier to live without a car, unlike Modesto where a car is almost essential. The higher traffic congestion in Seattle reflects its denser population and vibrant city life, yet it boasts a similar average commute time to Modesto. Understanding and adjusting to these changes will be key to a smoother transition.

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